Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A software-defined network (SDN) comprising: a network controller; a first edge node, wherein the first edge node is configured to: receive a data packet that is to be transmitted, adapt to changes due to mobility of a user equipment by determining a target edge node without the network controller adjusting a rule of routing from the first edge node to the target edge node in real time, acquire a target routing rule from the network controller according to the target edge node, and send the data packet to the target edge node according to the target routing rule, so that the target edge node completes transmission of the data packet; a plurality of additional edge nodes comprising a second edge node, wherein the target edge node is determined by the first edge node from the second edge node, wherein the target edge node is an additional edge node of the plurality of additional edge nodes, and wherein the data packet passes through the additional edge node in a process of transmitting the data packet, and the target routing rule refers to the rule of routing from the first edge node to the target edge node, wherein the additional edge node is configured to receive the data packet sent by the first edge node according to the target routing rule and complete transmission of the data packet while being used as the target edge node; and wherein the network controller is configured to provide the target routing rule for the first edge node.
This invention relates to a software-defined network (SDN) architecture designed to improve data packet transmission efficiency in mobile environments. The system addresses the challenge of handling user equipment mobility without requiring real-time adjustments to routing rules by the central network controller. The SDN includes a network controller and multiple edge nodes, including a first edge node and additional edge nodes such as a second edge node. The first edge node receives a data packet for transmission and autonomously determines a target edge node from the available edge nodes, adapting to user mobility without immediate controller intervention. It then acquires a target routing rule from the network controller based on the selected target edge node and forwards the packet accordingly. The data packet may pass through intermediate edge nodes before reaching the target, which then completes the transmission. The network controller provides the necessary routing rules to the first edge node. This approach reduces latency and improves scalability by decentralizing mobility-related routing decisions while maintaining centralized rule management. The system ensures seamless data transmission even as user equipment moves, leveraging edge node intelligence to optimize path selection dynamically.
2. The SDN according to claim 1 , wherein that the first edge node is configured to acquire a target routing rule from the network controller according to the target edge node comprises: the first edge node is configured to acquire the target routing rule from routing information that is sent in advance by the network controller, wherein the routing information comprises additional rules of routing between the first edge node and each of the plurality of additional edge nodes in the SDN; and the network controller is configured to send the routing information to the first edge node in advance.
In the domain of software-defined networking (SDN), this invention addresses the challenge of efficiently managing routing rules between edge nodes in a dynamic network environment. The solution involves a system where a first edge node in an SDN acquires a target routing rule from a network controller. The first edge node retrieves this rule from routing information that the network controller has previously sent. This routing information includes additional rules governing traffic routing between the first edge node and multiple other edge nodes within the SDN. The network controller proactively distributes this routing information to the first edge node in advance, ensuring that the edge node has the necessary routing rules available when needed. This preemptive distribution helps optimize network performance by reducing latency and improving decision-making at the edge nodes. The system enhances scalability and adaptability in SDN environments by centralizing routing rule management while enabling efficient local execution at the edge. The invention ensures that edge nodes can quickly access and apply routing rules without requiring real-time communication with the controller, thereby improving overall network responsiveness and reliability.
3. The SDN according to claim 1 , wherein that the first edge node is configured to acquire a target routing rule from the network controller according to the target edge node comprises: the first edge node is configured to: after receiving the data packet, send the network controller a request message for requesting the target routing rule, and receive the target routing rule sent by the network controller according to the request message; and the network controller is configured to: receive the request message, and return the target routing rule to the first edge node according to the request message.
This invention relates to software-defined networking (SDN) systems, specifically addressing the dynamic routing of data packets within an SDN environment. The problem solved is the efficient and scalable distribution of routing rules from a central network controller to edge nodes, ensuring optimal data packet forwarding without manual configuration. The system includes a network controller and multiple edge nodes, where the first edge node is responsible for acquiring a target routing rule from the network controller based on the identity of the target edge node. When the first edge node receives a data packet, it sends a request message to the network controller to obtain the appropriate routing rule. The network controller processes this request and returns the target routing rule to the first edge node. This dynamic interaction ensures that routing decisions are made in real-time, adapting to network conditions and reducing the need for static, pre-configured rules. The network controller maintains centralized control over routing policies, while edge nodes handle packet forwarding based on the rules received. This separation of control and data planes improves flexibility and scalability in SDN deployments. The system enables efficient traffic management by dynamically updating routing rules as needed, enhancing network performance and adaptability.
4. The SDN according to claim 1 , wherein the first edge node is a gateway device, the data packet is a downlink data packet sent to user equipment, and the second edge node is a base station device; wherein that the first edge node is configured to determine a target edge node comprises: the gateway device is configured to: determine a session identifier to which the downlink data packet belongs, and query a correspondence between a session identifier and a base station device according to the session identifier to which the downlink data packet belongs, to determine a target base station device.
This invention relates to software-defined networking (SDN) in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the efficient routing of downlink data packets from a gateway device to user equipment via base stations. The problem solved is the need for dynamic and intelligent routing of data packets in SDN-based networks to optimize performance and reduce latency. The system includes a first edge node acting as a gateway device, which receives downlink data packets destined for user equipment. The gateway determines the target edge node, which is a base station device, by analyzing the data packet. Specifically, the gateway extracts a session identifier from the downlink data packet and queries a predefined mapping between session identifiers and base station devices. This mapping allows the gateway to identify the correct base station device that should receive the data packet for subsequent transmission to the user equipment. The system ensures that data packets are routed efficiently to the appropriate base station, improving network performance and reducing unnecessary delays. The solution leverages SDN principles to dynamically manage routing decisions based on session information, enhancing flexibility and scalability in wireless communication networks.
5. A network device comprising: a receiver to receive a data packet that needs to be transmitted; a processor; a memory storing a program to be executed in the processor, the program comprising instructions for: adapting to changes due to mobility of a user equipment by determining a target edge node without a network controller adjusting a rule of routing from a first edge node to the target edge node in real time, wherein the network device is located in a software-defined network (SDN), wherein the network device is the first edge node, wherein a second edge node that is in the SDN is used as the target edge node, and wherein the data packet needs to pass through the second edge node in a process of transmitting the data packet; acquiring a target routing rule from the network controller in the SDN according to the target edge node, wherein the target routing rule refers to the rule of routing from the first edge node to the target edge node; generating the data packet according to the target routing rule; and a transmitter to send the data packet to the target edge node so that the target edge node completes transmission of the data packet.
This invention relates to network devices in software-defined networks (SDNs) that adapt to user equipment mobility without real-time rule adjustments by a network controller. The problem addressed is the inefficiency of traditional SDN routing where network controllers must dynamically update routing rules to accommodate mobile user devices, causing delays and overhead. The network device is an edge node in an SDN that receives a data packet for transmission. It includes a processor and memory storing instructions to handle mobility by determining a target edge node without requiring the network controller to adjust routing rules in real time. The device identifies a second edge node as the target and acquires a corresponding routing rule from the network controller. The routing rule defines the path from the first edge node (the device itself) to the target edge node. The device then generates the data packet according to this rule and transmits it to the target edge node, which completes the transmission process. This approach reduces latency and controller overhead by minimizing real-time rule adjustments while maintaining efficient routing in dynamic mobile environments.
6. The network device according to claim 5 , wherein the acquiring comprises acquiring the target routing rule from routing information that is sent in advance by the network controller, wherein the routing information comprises additional rules of routing between the first edge node and each second edge node in the SDN.
A network device in a software-defined networking (SDN) environment is configured to manage routing between edge nodes. The device acquires a target routing rule from routing information previously sent by a network controller. This routing information includes additional rules for routing traffic between a first edge node and multiple second edge nodes within the SDN. The device uses these rules to determine optimal paths for data transmission, ensuring efficient and reliable communication across the network. The routing information may include specific criteria or conditions for selecting routes, such as bandwidth availability, latency, or network congestion. By preloading this information, the network device can quickly adapt to changing network conditions without requiring real-time instructions from the controller, improving overall network performance and reducing latency. This approach enhances scalability and flexibility in dynamic SDN environments where routing decisions must be made rapidly and accurately.
7. The network device according to claim 5 , wherein the acquiring further comprises: after receiving the data packet, sending the network controller a request message for requesting the target routing rule, and receiving the target routing rule sent by the network controller in response to the request message.
A network device operates within a communication system where data packets are routed based on routing rules. The device acquires a target routing rule to process incoming data packets. The acquisition process involves sending a request message to a network controller after receiving a data packet, and then receiving the target routing rule from the network controller in response to the request. The network controller determines the appropriate routing rule based on the request, which may include information about the data packet or the network device. This dynamic acquisition allows the network device to adapt its routing behavior in real-time, improving flexibility and efficiency in packet forwarding. The system ensures that routing decisions are made centrally by the network controller, which can optimize traffic flow and resource allocation across the network. This approach is particularly useful in environments where routing rules need to be frequently updated or customized for specific network conditions or policies. The network device may also include additional components, such as a packet processing module and a storage unit, to support the routing and forwarding of data packets according to the acquired rules.
8. A network controller comprising: a processor; a memory storing a program to be executed in the processor, the program comprising instructions for: configuring routing information for a first edge node in a software-defined network (SDN), wherein the network controller is located in the SDN, and wherein the routing information comprises a plurality of rules of routing from the first edge node to each second edge node in the SDN; and a transmitter to send the routing information to the first edge node, so that the first edge node determines, based on the routing information while receiving a data packet that needs to be transmitted, a target rule of routing to a target edge node, wherein a second edge node in the SDN is used as the target edge node, wherein the data packet passes through the second edge node in a process of transmitting the data packet, and wherein the first edge node adapts, while receiving the data packet, to changes due to mobility of a user equipment by determining the target edge node without the network controller adjusting a rule of routing of the plurality of rules of routing from the first edge node to the target edge node in real time.
A network controller for managing routing in a software-defined network (SDN) includes a processor and memory storing a program executed by the processor. The program configures routing information for a first edge node in the SDN, where the network controller is also part of the SDN. The routing information contains multiple rules for routing data packets from the first edge node to each second edge node in the network. The controller sends this routing information to the first edge node, enabling it to determine the appropriate routing rule when receiving a data packet destined for a target edge node. The data packet is transmitted through the target edge node, which may be any second edge node in the SDN. The first edge node dynamically adapts to changes, such as user equipment mobility, by selecting the target edge node without requiring the network controller to adjust routing rules in real time. This allows the edge node to handle routing decisions autonomously based on the preconfigured rules, improving efficiency and responsiveness in the SDN.
9. The network controller according to claim 8 , wherein the program further comprises instructions for: after learning that a downlink data packet belongs to a new session that uses a dedicated bearer, generating a target filtering rule used for the downlink data packet, and generating a correspondence between a session identifier to which the downlink data packet belongs and a base station device that currently serves a user equipment; wherein the transmitter is further configured to: send the target filtering rule to a gateway device, so that the gateway device determines, according to the target filtering rule, the session identifier to which the downlink data packet belongs; and send the gateway device the correspondence between the session identifier to which the downlink data packet belongs and the base station device that currently serves the user equipment, so that the gateway device determines a target base station device.
In wireless communication networks, efficiently managing data sessions for user equipment (UE) across different base stations is critical for maintaining seamless connectivity. A key challenge is ensuring that downlink data packets for new sessions using dedicated bearers are correctly routed to the appropriate base station serving the UE. This invention addresses this problem by enhancing a network controller to dynamically generate and distribute filtering rules and session-to-base station mappings. The network controller includes a processor and a transmitter. When a downlink data packet for a new session using a dedicated bearer is detected, the controller generates a target filtering rule for that packet. It also establishes a correspondence between the session identifier of the downlink data packet and the base station currently serving the UE. The transmitter then sends the target filtering rule to a gateway device, enabling the gateway to identify the session identifier of the downlink data packet based on the rule. Additionally, the transmitter sends the session-to-base station correspondence to the gateway, allowing it to determine the target base station for routing the downlink data packet. This ensures efficient and accurate data delivery in the network.
10. The network controller according to claim 8 , the program further comprises instructions for: updating, according to movement of a user equipment, the correspondence between a session identifier to which a downlink data packet belongs and a base station device that currently serves the user equipment.
A network controller manages data sessions for user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, particularly addressing the challenge of efficiently routing downlink data packets as the UE moves between base stations. The controller includes a program with instructions to maintain a correspondence between session identifiers and the base stations currently serving the UE. When the UE moves, the controller updates this correspondence to ensure downlink data packets are correctly routed to the serving base station. This dynamic updating mechanism prevents data loss or misrouting during handover, improving session continuity and reliability. The controller may also handle session establishment, termination, and data forwarding between base stations, ensuring seamless communication as the UE transitions across different network areas. The system optimizes resource allocation and reduces latency by dynamically adjusting routing paths based on UE mobility, enhancing overall network performance.
11. A data transmission method comprising: receiving, by a first edge node in a software-defined network (SDN), a data packet that is to be transmitted; adapting to changes due to mobility of a user equipment by determining, by the first edge node, a target edge node without a network controller adjusting a rule of routing from the first edge node to the target edge node in real time, wherein a second edge node is used as the target edge node, and wherein the data packet passes through the second edge node in a process of transmitting the data packet; acquiring, by the first edge node, a target routing rule from the network controller according to the target edge node, wherein the target routing rule refers to the rule of routing from the first edge node to the target edge node; and sending, by the first edge node, the data packet to the target edge node according to the target routing rule, so that the target edge node completes transmission of the data packet.
This invention relates to data transmission in software-defined networks (SDNs) addressing challenges posed by user equipment mobility. In SDNs, network controllers typically manage routing rules, but this can introduce latency when user devices move, requiring real-time adjustments. The invention describes a method where a first edge node in the SDN receives a data packet for transmission. To handle mobility, the first edge node autonomously determines a target edge node (e.g., a second edge node) without requiring the network controller to adjust routing rules in real time. The first edge node then acquires a target routing rule from the network controller, which defines the path from the first edge node to the target edge node. The data packet is sent to the target edge node according to this rule, allowing the target edge node to complete the transmission. This approach reduces dependency on real-time controller intervention, improving efficiency in dynamic network environments. The method ensures seamless data transmission despite user mobility by leveraging pre-existing routing rules while allowing edge nodes to dynamically select optimal paths.
12. The method according to claim 11 , wherein the acquiring by the first edge node comprises: acquiring, by the first edge node, the target routing rule from routing information that is sent in advance by the network controller, wherein the routing information comprises additional rules of routing between the first edge node and each second edge node in the SDN.
In the field of software-defined networking (SDN), managing routing rules between edge nodes is critical for efficient data flow. A challenge arises in dynamically updating routing rules to optimize network performance, particularly when multiple edge nodes interact within the SDN. This invention addresses the problem by providing a method for acquiring target routing rules at a first edge node, ensuring efficient and adaptive routing decisions. The method involves the first edge node obtaining a target routing rule from routing information previously sent by a network controller. This routing information includes additional rules that define the routing paths between the first edge node and each second edge node in the SDN. By acquiring these rules in advance, the first edge node can dynamically adjust its routing decisions based on the latest network conditions, improving data transmission efficiency and reducing latency. The network controller centrally manages and distributes these routing rules, ensuring consistency and coordination across the network. This approach enhances scalability and adaptability in SDN environments, allowing for real-time adjustments to routing paths without manual intervention. The solution is particularly useful in large-scale networks where dynamic routing is essential for maintaining optimal performance.
13. The method according to claim 11 , wherein the acquiring by the first edge node comprises: sending, by the first edge node after receiving the data packet, the network controller a request message for requesting the target routing rule, and receiving, by the first edge node, the target routing rule sent by the network controller according to the request message.
This invention relates to edge computing systems, specifically methods for dynamic routing rule acquisition in distributed networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and scalable routing rule management in edge computing environments where edge nodes must adapt to changing network conditions or application requirements. The method involves a first edge node in a network acquiring a target routing rule from a network controller. The edge node sends a request message to the network controller after receiving a data packet, seeking the appropriate routing rule for processing the packet. The network controller then determines and sends the target routing rule back to the first edge node based on the request. This allows the edge node to dynamically obtain routing instructions without preconfigured rules, improving flexibility and reducing manual configuration overhead. The solution enables real-time adaptation to network changes, such as traffic patterns or policy updates, by allowing edge nodes to request and receive updated routing rules on-demand. This is particularly useful in scenarios where edge nodes must handle diverse or unpredictable data flows, ensuring efficient packet forwarding and processing. The interaction between the edge node and the network controller ensures centralized control while maintaining decentralized execution, balancing scalability and manageability in large-scale edge networks.
14. A transmission control method comprising: configuring, by a network controller in a software-defined network (SDN), routing information for a first edge node in the SDN, wherein the routing information comprises a plurality of rules of routing from the first edge node to each second edge node in the SDN; and sending, by the network controller, the routing information to the first edge node, wherein the first edge node determines, based on the routing information while receiving a data packet that is to be transmitted, a target rule of routing to a target edge node, wherein a second edge node in the SDN is used as the target edge node, wherein the data packet passes through the second edge node in a process of transmitting the data packet, and wherein the first edge node adapts, while receiving the data packet, to changes due to mobility of a user equipment by determining the target edge node without the network controller adjusting a rule of routing of the plurality of rules of routing from the first edge node to the target edge node in real time.
This technical summary describes a transmission control method for software-defined networks (SDNs) that addresses the challenge of efficiently routing data packets in dynamic environments, particularly where user equipment (UE) mobility may cause frequent changes in network topology. The method involves a network controller configuring routing information for a first edge node in the SDN, where the routing information includes multiple routing rules from the first edge node to each second edge node in the network. The network controller sends this routing information to the first edge node, which then uses it to determine the appropriate routing rule for transmitting a received data packet to a target edge node. The target edge node is selected from the second edge nodes in the SDN, and the data packet passes through this target edge node during transmission. A key feature of this method is that the first edge node can adapt to changes in UE mobility by dynamically determining the target edge node without requiring the network controller to adjust the routing rules in real time. This reduces the need for constant centralized control, improving scalability and responsiveness in the SDN. The method ensures efficient data transmission while accommodating mobility without real-time intervention from the network controller.
15. The method according to claim 14 , wherein the first edge node is a gateway device, the data packet is a downlink data packet sent to user equipment, and the second edge node is a base station device, the method further comprising: generating, by the network controller after learning that the downlink data packet belongs to a new session that uses a dedicated bearer, a target filtering rule used for the downlink data packet, and generating a correspondence between a session identifier to which the downlink data packet belongs and a base station device that currently serves the user equipment; and sending, by the network controller, the target filtering rule to the gateway device, so that the gateway device determines, according to the target filtering rule, the session identifier to which the downlink data packet belongs; and sending the gateway device the correspondence between the session identifier to which the downlink data packet belongs and the base station device that currently serves the user equipment, so that the gateway device determines a target base station device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically optimizing data packet routing for user equipment (UE) in a network with edge nodes. The problem addressed is efficiently managing downlink data packets for new sessions using dedicated bearers, ensuring packets are routed to the correct base station serving the UE. The method involves a network controller that detects a downlink data packet belonging to a new session requiring a dedicated bearer. The controller generates a target filtering rule for this packet and establishes a correspondence between the session identifier and the base station currently serving the UE. The controller then sends the filtering rule to a gateway device, enabling the gateway to identify the session identifier of the downlink data packet. Additionally, the controller provides the gateway with the correspondence between the session identifier and the serving base station, allowing the gateway to determine the target base station for routing the packet. This approach ensures that downlink data packets for new dedicated bearer sessions are accurately routed to the correct base station, improving network efficiency and reducing latency. The gateway device acts as an intermediary, using the filtering rule and session-to-base station mapping to forward packets appropriately. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where UE mobility or session management requires dynamic routing adjustments.
16. The SDN according to claim 1 , further comprising: a user location database, wherein the first edge node determines the target edge node by performing a query in the user location database.
A software-defined networking (SDN) system optimizes network traffic routing by dynamically selecting edge nodes based on user location data. The system includes a centralized controller that manages network resources and a plurality of edge nodes connected to user devices. The SDN controller configures network paths to minimize latency and improve performance. A key challenge in such systems is efficiently determining the optimal edge node for a given user to reduce connection delays and enhance service quality. To address this, the SDN system incorporates a user location database that stores real-time or near-real-time location data for users. When a user initiates a connection, the first edge node handling the request queries this database to identify the target edge node closest to the user's location. This ensures that traffic is routed through the most geographically proximate edge node, reducing latency and improving overall network efficiency. The user location database may be updated dynamically as users move or as new location data becomes available, ensuring accurate routing decisions. This approach enhances the scalability and responsiveness of the SDN system, particularly in large-scale networks with distributed edge nodes.
17. The network device according to claim 5 , wherein the program further comprises instructions for: after receiving the data packet, sending the network controller a request message for requesting the target routing rule; and receiving the target routing rule sent by the network controller according to the request message.
A network device is configured to process data packets by determining routing rules for forwarding the packets. The device includes a network controller that stores routing rules and a program that executes instructions to handle packet routing. When the device receives a data packet, the program sends a request message to the network controller to obtain a target routing rule for the packet. The network controller processes the request and sends the target routing rule back to the program. The program then uses this rule to determine how to forward the packet within the network. This approach allows dynamic routing decisions based on real-time rule retrieval, improving flexibility and efficiency in packet forwarding. The system ensures that routing rules are centrally managed by the network controller, reducing the need for each device to maintain its own routing tables. This method is particularly useful in large-scale networks where routing rules may change frequently or vary across different network segments. The device may be part of a larger network infrastructure, such as a router, switch, or gateway, and the routing rules may include forwarding paths, quality-of-service policies, or security filters. The interaction between the program and the network controller ensures that routing decisions are consistent and up-to-date, enhancing network performance and reliability.
18. The network device according to claim 5 , wherein determining the target edge node comprises querying a user location database.
A network device operates within a distributed computing environment to optimize data routing by selecting an optimal edge node for processing user requests. The device identifies a user's location and determines a target edge node based on proximity to minimize latency. The selection process involves querying a user location database to retrieve the user's geographic coordinates or network location. The device then evaluates available edge nodes, comparing their distances or network hops to the user's location to select the closest or most efficient node. This ensures low-latency data processing and reduces bandwidth usage by avoiding unnecessary data transmission across long distances. The system may also consider additional factors such as node load, available resources, or service-level agreements when selecting the target edge node. The network device dynamically updates its routing decisions as user locations or network conditions change, maintaining optimal performance. This approach is particularly useful in content delivery networks, cloud computing, and edge computing applications where minimizing latency is critical for user experience.
19. The method according to claim 11 , wherein determining the target edge node comprises querying a user location database.
A system and method for optimizing data routing in a distributed network involves selecting a target edge node to minimize latency and improve performance. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently routing data in large-scale networks by dynamically determining the optimal edge node based on user location and network conditions. The process includes analyzing network topology, evaluating available edge nodes, and selecting the most suitable one for data transmission. A key aspect is querying a user location database to identify the target edge node, ensuring that data is routed to the geographically or logically closest node to reduce latency. This approach enhances user experience by minimizing delays and improving data delivery efficiency. The method may also involve assessing network load, bandwidth availability, and other performance metrics to further optimize routing decisions. By leveraging real-time location data and network analytics, the system dynamically adapts to changing conditions, ensuring optimal data flow across the network. This solution is particularly useful in content delivery networks (CDNs), cloud computing, and other distributed systems where low-latency data routing is critical.
20. The method according to claim 14 , further comprising: receiving, by the network controller, a request message from the first edge node; and returning, by the network controller, the target routing rule to the first edge node according to the request message.
This invention relates to network routing in distributed systems, specifically improving routing efficiency in edge computing environments. The problem addressed is the need for dynamic and efficient routing rule distribution to edge nodes to optimize data flow and reduce latency. Traditional systems often rely on static or centralized routing configurations, which can lead to inefficiencies and bottlenecks. The invention describes a method for managing routing rules in a network with multiple edge nodes. A network controller maintains a set of routing rules, including a target routing rule, which defines how data should be routed between nodes. The network controller receives a request message from a first edge node, which may be part of a distributed system. In response, the network controller returns the target routing rule to the first edge node. This allows the edge node to apply the rule locally, enabling optimized data routing without centralized coordination. The method ensures that routing decisions are made dynamically based on current network conditions, improving performance and scalability. The invention may also involve generating the target routing rule based on network topology, traffic patterns, or other factors to further enhance efficiency. The overall system reduces latency and improves resource utilization by decentralizing routing decisions while maintaining centralized control for rule generation and distribution.
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January 28, 2020
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